For those who haven’t dipped their toes in the world of Korean cuisine, a new start-up could be just what you need to make the jump. Tteokbokki – or stir-fried rice cakes, as they’re known in Korea – are poised to hit mainstream status, according to new research from Mintel. This comforting dish is simmered with gochujang and other ingredients, then served with accompaniments like fishcake or boiled eggs, to produce bold notes of sweet, savoury, and spicy.
In South Korea, tteokbokki is one of the country’s most popular street foods. The dish is often cooked and sold by vendors – called ponangmacha in Korean – on the side of streets and in busy markets, where it has become an integral part of the city’s vibrant street food culture. Its popularity reflects its role as a traditional comfort food, which transcends social and economic boundaries.떡볶이창업
Tteokbokki’s spicy flavour and chewy texture represent the unique characteristics of the nation’s culinary heritage, and it is often used as a cultural ambassador to introduce Korean tastes and traditions to locals and foreigners alike. Its prominence as a street food also symbolizes the sense of communal sharing that is rooted in Korean society.
The dish is incredibly versatile, with many variations available on menus at restaurants and street food stalls. Some chefs mix it with different sauces, such as teriyaki or chilli pastes, or add extras like noodles, cheese, or vegetables to create unique flavours. There are even vegetarian or vegan options.
As Tteokbokki continues to gain recognition in the West, more restaurants are adding them to their rosters. For instance, Wagamama – which played a pivotal role in bringing Japanese food to the masses – recently launched a new menu that includes tteokbokki. And on TikTok, the search for the perfect tteokbokki recipe has already clocked up more than 2.9 billion views.
The Hankyoreh visited Oftt in Seoul, a stripped-down establishment with only five tables and an exposed cement wall that embodies the restaurant’s hip sensibility. Inside, fast-paced rap music plays in the background while a team of young workers quickly prepares orders for customers.청년창업
The restaurant offers a range of Tteokbokki combos and sizes, and their team members are happy to help customers choose their preferred versions. They’re also on hand to offer tips and tricks for making the best tteokbokki at home. For example, they recommend adding a pinch of gochugaru (Korean chili pepper powder) to the recipe for added spice, but this is optional – you can substitute it with regular red pepper flakes. Also, they advise not to overdo the amount of sauce. They’ve seen people with barely any sauce and others swimming in it, but the key is to find a balance that suits you. Try it out for yourself and see how you like it! You can also follow the restaurant on Instagram.